Description

Year : 1965Make : Rolls-RoyceModel : Silver Cloud IIICoachbuilder : James YoungBody Type : SCT100 Long Wheel Base SaloonColour : Tudor GreyTrim : Beige West of England ClothHistory : 1962 saw the introduction of the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III which was to be the final variant of the factory bodied standard steel saloon. At first glance it would appear that the all new Silver Cloud III was merely a Silver Cloud II with different headlamps. The introduction of the twin headlamps was clearly the most obvious change, but the differences did not end there. Further changes included the introduction of smaller bumper over riders and the repositioning of the front indicators and side lamps into one single unit on the front wing, resulting in an arguably more attractive appearance. Mechanically speaking the Silver Cloud III was issued with larger 9:1 compression ratio carburettors, improved power steering to aid smoother movement at parking speed and a Lucas vacuum-advance distributor to aid fuel consumption, making it almost identical in mechanical specification to the Bentley S3 Continental that was being produced at the same time. A wider range of coachbuilt bodies were also available to buyers of Silver Cloud III’s. The adaptation style convertible bodies that had been available on the Silver Cloud I and II were again offered on the Cloud III chassis. H.J. Mulliner also offered their “Flying Spur” type coachwork only seen on Bentley Continentals before 1962. The Mulliner/Park Ward “Chinese Eye” style coupes and convertibles were also offered, built in limited numbers for those customers who wanted something a little different. James Young were also responsible for bodying some very attractive Silver Cloud III’s with just a handful of stylish coupe bodies constructed. They also offered an option on the long wheel base Silver Cloud III chassis, which was known as the SCT100. It was built to at James Youngs works in Bromley, with just thirty two examples produced in right hand drive. Of the thirty two known to have been built, Chassis No CEL41 must be one of, if not the best example left in existence. It was restored by Frank Dale & Stepsons in recent times to concours condition regardless of cost for one of Europe’s most prestigious collections of desirable motor cars. The work included but was not limited to, a complete mechanical re-build, a re-paint from bare metal in Tudor grey, a full re-trim along with chrome and woodwork restoration. The car was also upgraded with central locking, colour coded seatbelts, power adjustable seats to the front and modern stereo equipment tastefully blended into the dashboard. CEL41 also comes fitted with power windows and air conditioning and is complete with a file documenting the restoration process, with all of the bills in chronological order. The car has travelled just over 2,500 miles in the three years since the restoration was completed and is still in magnificent condition. It is hard to criticise. It is unlikely in our opinion that a better example of this rare and elegant Rolls-Royce will ever be offered for sale and should be seen in person to be truly appreciated.Condition : Excellent condition. Technical Data : Four speed automatic gearbox, power steering, 8 cylinder 90 degree V-configuration engine, 6.2 litres displacement, 6230cc capacity. Drum brakes servo-assisted.